GE "44-Tonner" Locomotives: Roster, Specs, History
Last revised: January 2, 2025
By: Adam Burns
General Electric's 44-tonner was the builder's most well-known in its early line of industrial switchers with more than 400 produced between 1940-1957.
This compact workhorse was originally designed to comply with the "90,000 Pound Rule" of the time, which exempted railroads from requiring a full-time fireman for any locomotive weighing less than 45 tons.
This model was powered by two Caterpillar D17000 V8 diesel engines, providing a top speed of 35 mph. Despite its small size, the 44-tonner was known for its robust performance and durability and was often used for light-duty switching and yard work.
A total of 373 units were produced in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico making it a successful model for General Electric. In addition, another 60 were built for the military and 43 more exported to other countries.
Its historic impact can still be seen today, with several units preserved in museums and others continuing to operate in industrial and shortline service.
Photos
Middletown & New Jersey 44-tonner #2 and its crew pose for a photo at the railroad's little engine house in Middletown, New York; January, 1977. Photographer unknown. American-Rails.com collection.Early Switchers
GE's involvement with the railroad industry dates back to the 19th century and it helped construct very early diesel switchers. In fact, the company is credited - alongside Ingersoll-Rand and Alco - in developing "the first commercial diesel-electic locomotive in the United States" in Jay Street Connecting boxcab #4 in October, 1918.
Long before the company began producing a successful line of road-switchers it had built an equally sucessful line of small switchers, aimed at both industrial and general railroad applications.
In his book, "Critters, Dinkys & Centercabs," author Jay Reed notes GE's first was the 25-ton model in 1938. Ultimately, the company built a wide-range of such locomotives in both end-cab and center-cab configurations ranging from 4 tons to 144 tons.
The 44-ton was, without question, its most successful and could be found in all types of service - from industrial settings to large Class 1 carriers. They proved a perfect little locomotive for almost anything.
Development
As Brian Solomon notes in his book, "GE Locomotives," the 44-tonner was developed specifically to avoid the "90,000 Pound Rule," part of a 1937 labor agreement aimed at protecting the firemen's job with any diesel weighing at least 45 tons.
The switcher featured a symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing carbody while also providing ruggedness and reliability. The centercab carbody sported a raised cab with a tapered hood at each end.
In his book, "Diesel Locomotives: Cyclopedia - Volume 2," author Bob Hayden notes their B-B trucks were an all-welded design, somewhat unique as most were produced from castings.
They were 33 feet, 5 inches long with the original variants utilizing a pair of Caterpillar D-17000 V-8 engines. These were initially rated at 150 hp each and were later upgraded to as much as 190 hp each.
In addition, Louis Marre notes in his book, "Diesel Locomotives: The First 50 Years," ten 44-tonners were equipped with a pair of Buda 6DH1742 engines capable of producing 205 horsepower each.
Finally, the Phase IV and Phase V switchers boasted 400 horsepower. Of the 373 44-tonners produced in North America and Mexico, the Pennsylvania wound up with the largest fleet totaling 46 units.
Reception
Interestingly, GE had always intended these switchers to operate in general common-carrier service merely by how they were designed.
However, numerous private industries snapped up the model thanks to its modest horsepower, generally light weight, rugged traction motors, and short wheelbase allowing it to negotiate tight clearances and track curvature with a radius of 50 feet.
Alexander Railroad 44-tonner #3 heads east through Stony Point, NC with six boxcars and two loads of pulpwood bound for the Southern Railway interchange in Statesville during a fall afternoon in the 1960's. The little short line remains active today. Warren Calloway photo.Phases
During its sixteen year production run, the switcher went through a number of changes and upgrades. The very first 44-tonner produced was Chicago, Burlington & Quincy #9103, delivered to the railroad on September 4, 1940.
Phase I
The Phase I group included 79 locomotives built through October, 1942. They included radiator louvers situated near the end of both hoods with access ladder centered over the forward left truck.
Phase II
These included a total of 43 units built between December, 1942 and May, 1943. GE made two notable changes; the radiator shutters were moved to the hood ends and access ladders located along all four corners of the frame.
Phase III
A total of 34 locomotives were produced in this particular phase between November, 1943 and June, 1945. This version is a bit harder to differentiate; its particular nuances included sets of "French doors" on the 'long' hoods rather than single-panel access doors. In addition, the access doors under the cab are larger.
Phase IV
This constituted the largest single group totaling 171 units in all. Production overlapped Phase III examples, running from March, 1945 through September, 1951.
Their single variation was the small rectangular air intake at the top of the hood. Finally, 62 in the series were rated at 400 horsepower instead of the then-standard 380 horsepower.
Phase V
This group was produced between November, 1951 and October, 1956 totaling 43 units. They featured two notable distinctions, rectangular instead of rounded headlight casings and stiffening ridges stamped into the hood doors.
Of note was the final four examples in this series which were equipped with six-cylinder, Caterpillar model 342 engines capable of producing 200 horsepower each. The final example was Dansville & Mount Morris #1, completed in October, 1956.
Production Roster
| Owner | Road Number(s) | Quantity | Serial Number | Completion Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alexander Railroad | 2 | 1 | 28502 | 7/1946 |
| Almanor Railroad | 106 | 1 | 28340 | 12/1946 |
| Amador Central | 8 | 1 | 27980 | 5/1945 |
| Arcade & Attica | 110 | 1 | 12947 | 6/1941 |
| Arcade & Attica | 111 | 1 | 28346 | 4/1947 |
| Arkansas Valley | 92, 93 | 2 | 12912, 12913 | 9/1940 |
| Aroostook Valley | 10, 11 | 2 | 27799, 27800 | 6/1945 |
| Aroostook Valley | 12 | 1 | 30246 | 9/1949 |
| Santa Fe | 460, 461 | 2 | 15760, 15761 | 12/1942 |
| Santa Fe | 462 | 1 | 17927 | 7/1943 |
| Santa Fe | 463 - 468 | 6 | 18151 - 18156 | 12/1943 |
| Atlantic & East Carolina | 7 | 1 | 15766 | 2/1943 |
| Atlantic & East Carolina | 8 | 1 | 18145 | 11/1943 |
| Baltimore & Ohio | 19, 20 | 2 | 30470, 30471 | 9/1950, 10/1950 |
| Bath & Hammondsport | D-1 | 1 | 30250 | 9/1949 |
| Beaumont, Sour Lake & Western (Missouri Pacific) | 815 | 1 | 13181 | 1/1942 |
| Birmingham Southeastern | 199 | 1 | 31229 | 5/1953 |
| Boston & Maine | 110-112 | 3 | 12915-12917 | 11/1940 |
| Boston & Maine | 113 | 1 | 12943 | 11/1940 |
| Boston & Maine | 114-116 | 3 | 13092-13094 | 7/1941 |
| Boston & Maine | 117 | 1 | 15036 | 8/1942 |
| Boston & Maine | 118, 119 | 2 | 29076, 29974 | 12/1947, 6/1948 |
| Boyne City Railroad | 70 | 1 | 30472 | 9/1950 |
| Calco Chemical Division - American Cyanamid | 5 | 1 | 28342 | 2/1947 |
| Camino, Placerville & Lake Tahoe | 101 | 1 | 31231 | 6/1953 |
| Carnegie-Illinois Steel | 5 | 1 | 17929 | 7/1943 |
| Carnegie-Illinois Steel | 443 | 1 | 15755 | 12/1942 |
| Central California Traction | 25 | 1 | 28339 | 12/1946 |
| Central California Traction | 26 | 1 | 28333 | 11/1946 |
| Central Warehouse Company | No Number | 1 | 31115 | 7/1951 |
| Chattanooga Traction Company | 1, 2 | 2 | 13014, 13015 | 4/1941 |
| Chattanooga Traction Company | 3 | 1 | 18159 | 1/1944 |
| Chicago ,Burlington & Quincy | 9103 | 1 | 12908 | 9/1940 |
| Chicago ,Burlington & Quincy | 9104-9107 | 4 | 12949-12952 | 2/1941-3/1941 |
| Milwaukee Road | 1690 | 1 | 12909 | 9/1940 |
| Milwaukee Road | 1700, 1701 | 2 | 15039, 15040 | 11/1941 |
| Colorado Fuel & Iron (36" Gauge) | 1 | 1 | 12953 | 10/1940 |
| Colorado Fuel & Iron (36" Gauge) | 2 | 1 | 29196 | 6/1947 |
| Colorado Fuel & Iron [36" Gauge] | 21, 22 | 2 | 32970, 32971 | 5/1957 |
| Coudersport & Port Allegheny | D-1 | 1 | 28503 | 8/1946 |
| Coudersport & Port Allegheny | D-2 | 1 | 30850 | 12/1950 |
| Dansville & Mount Morris | 1 | 1 | 32664 | 10/1956 |
| Delaware, Lackawanna & Western | 51-53 | 3 | 29986-29988 | 10/1948-11/1948 |
| Denver & Rio Grande Western | 38 | 1 | 13096 | 8/1941 |
| Denver & Rio Grande Western | 39 | 1 | 15123 | 9/1942 |
| Denver & Rio Grande Western | 40-43 | 4 | 15127 - 15130 | 9/1942-10/1942 |
| Electric Energy, Inc. | 1-3 | 3 | 31218-31220 | 11/1951 |
| Erie | 26 | 1 | 28504 | 9/1946 |
| Fernwood, Columbia & Gulf | D-1 - D-3 | 3 | 18195 - 18197 | 3-4/1945 |
| Fernwood, Columbia & Gulf | D-4 | 1 | 28347 | 4/1947 |
| Fibreboard Products, Inc. | 1 | 1 | 29071 | 10/1947 |
| General Electric (Demonstrator) | 1950 | 1 | 30257 | 3/1950 |
| Grafton & Upton | 9, 10 | 2 | 28497, 28498 | 7/1946 |
| Granite City Steel | 200 | 1 | 15763 | 12/1942 |
| Great Northern | 5200, 5201 | 2 | 12910, 12911 | 9/1940 |
| Hampton & Branchville | 42, 43 | 2 | 31111, 31112 | 6/1951 |
| Hartwell Railway | 2 | 1 | 30253 | 2/1950 |
| Helena Southwestern | 300 | 1 | 29985 | 10/1948 |
| High Point, Thomasville & Denton | 101 | 1 | 18180 | 10/1944 |
| Hoboken Manufacturers Railroad | 700, 701 | 2 | 29070, 29073 | 11/1947 |
| Illinois Central | 9275 | 1 | 29072 | 11/1947 |
| International-Great Northern (Missouri Pacific) | 812 | 1 | 13178 | 1/1942 |
| Kansas City Power & Light | 5 | 1 | 27797 | 6/1945 |
| Kansas City Power & Light | 6 | 1 | 30248 | 9/1949 |
| Laurinburg & Southern | 100 | 1 | 28495 | 6/1946 |
| Lehigh Valley | 60-62 | 3 | 15033-15035 | 12/1941, 2/1942, 8/1942 |
| Long Island Rail Road | 400 | 1 | 30854 | 12/1950 |
| Lowville & Beaver River | 1947 | 1 | 28345 | 4/1947 |
| Maine Central | 11 | 1 | 13095 | 9/1941 |
| Maine Central | 12 | 1 | 15037 | 8/1942 |
| Maine Central | 13-15 | 3 | 27973-27975 | 5/1945 |
| Maine Central | 16 | 1 | 28488 | 5/1945 |
| Maine Central | 17 | 1 | 28348 | 6/1947 |
| Manistee & Northeastern | 1 | 1 | 28501 | 8/1946 |
| Middletown & Unionville | 1 | 1 | 28487 | 4/1946 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | D-149 | 1 | 29994 | 11/1948 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | D-742 | 1 | 15122 | 9/1942 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | D-842 | 1 | 15124 | 8/1942 |
| Minneapolis St. Paul & Soo Ste. Marie (Soo Line) | 330 | 1 | 12944 | 6/1941 |
| Mississippi Export | 44 | 1 | 12914 | 10/1940 |
| Mississippi Export | 45 | 1 | 12945 | 12/1940 |
| Missouri & Illinois Bridge & Belt | 100 | 1 | 15024 | 8/1941 |
| Missouri Pacific | 800, 801 | 2 | 12974, 12975 | 2/1941 |
| Missouri Pacific | 811 | 1 | 13177 | 1/1942 |
| Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis | 100-103 | 4 | 30460-30463 | 6/1950-7/1950 |
| Nelson & Albermarle Railroad | 1 | 1 | 30856 | 1/1951 |
| New York, Chicago & St. Louis (Nickel Plate Road) | 90 | 1 | 30249 | 9/1949 |
| New York, New Haven & Hartford | 0800 | 1 | 12946 | 1/1941 |
| New York, New Haven & Hartford | 0801, 0802 | 2 | 13097, 13101 | 9/1941 |
| New York, New Haven & Hartford | 0803-0805 | 3 | 13025 - 13027 | 11/1941 |
| New York, New Haven & Hartford | 0806 | 1 | 13100 | 12/1941 |
| New York, New Haven & Hartford | 0807-0811 | 5 | 18184 - 18188 | 2-3/1945 |
| New York, New Haven & Hartford | 0812-0815 | 4 | 18190-18193 | 3/1945 |
| New York, New Haven & Hartford | 0816 | 1 | 27794 | 6/1945 |
| New York, New Haven & Hartford | 0817, 0818 | 2 | 29080, 29081 | 12/1947 |
| New York, Ontario & Western | 101-105 | 5 | 15028-15032 | 12/1941-1/1942 |
| Northern Pacific | 98 | 1 | 28496 | 6/1946 |
| Northern Pacific | 99 | 1 | 15765 | 3/1943 |
| Omaha, Lincoln & Beatrice | 101 | 1 | 30849 | 12/1950 |
| Pacific Electric Railway | 1650, 1651 | 2 | 17921, 17926 | 6/1943 |
| Pacific Electric Railway | 1652-1654 | 3 | 18181-18183 | 10/1944 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 9312, 9313 | 2 | 29992, 29993 | 3/1949, 2/1949 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 9314-9324 | 11 | 30132-30142 | 3/1949-5/1949 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 9325 - 9327 | 3 | 29077-29079 | 11/1947 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 9328-9340 | 13 | 29961-29973 | 6/1948-10/1948 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 9341-9349 | 9 | 29975-29983 | 10/1948-12/1948 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 9350-9353 | 4 | 30143-30146 | 5/1949 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 9354-9356 | 3 | 30243-30245 | 8/1949 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 9357 | 1 | 30254 | 2/1950 |
| Petaluma & Santa Rosa | 1 | 1 | 28338 | 12/1946 |
| Pine Flat Dam Contractors | 2850, 2851 | 2 | 30464, 30465 | 8/1950 |
| Pine Flat Dam Contractors | 2852 | 1 | 30848 | 12/1950 |
| Pine Flat Dam Contractors | 2853 | 1 | 30473 | 9/1950 |
| Point Comfort & Northern | 2 | 1 | 29990 | 11/1948 |
| Pullman-Standard Car Manufacturing Company | 7 | 1 | 28343 | 3/1947 |
| Quincy Railroad | 3 | 1 | 27819 | 9/1945 |
| St. Louis, Brownsville & Mexico (Missouri Pacific) | 813, 814 | 2 | 13179, 13180 | 2/1942, 1/1942 |
| St. Louis-San Francisco (Frisco) | 4, 5 | 2 | 17922, 17923 | 6/1943 |
| St. Louis-San Francisco (Frisco) | 6 | 1 | 17936 | 8/1943 |
| St. Louis-San Francisco (Frisco) | 7, 8 | 2 | 18157, 18158 | 1/1944 |
| St. Paul Union Depot | 441 | 1 | 12948 | 5/1941 |
| Sacramento Northern | 142, 143 | 2 | 28331, 28332 | 11/1946 |
| Sacramento Northern | 144-146 | 3 | 28334-28336 | 11/1946 |
| San Francisco & Napa Valley | 30, 40 | 2 | 15120, 15121 | 4/1942 |
| San Francisco & Napa Valley | 50 | 1 | 17928 | 8/1943 |
| Sheffield Steel | 5 | 1 | 27560 | 1/1944 |
| Sheffield Steel | 6 | 1 | 18178 | 3/1944 |
| Sheffield Steel | 7 | 1 | 29984 | 9/1948 |
| Sheffield Steel | 8 | 1 | 30247 | 9/1949 |
| Sheffield Steel | 9 | 1 | 30474 | 10/1950 |
| Skaneateles Short Line Railroad | 6 | 1 | 30847 | 12/1950 |
| Southern Pacific | 1900-1902 | 3 | 15114-15116 | 8/1942 |
| Southern Railway | 1950-1953 | 4 | 27822-27825 | 9/1945 |
| Alabama Great Southern (Southern) | 6520 | 1 | 27826 | 10/1945 |
| Cincinnati, New Orleans & Texas Pacific (Southern) | 6010 | 1 | 27828 | 10/1945 |
| New Orleans & North Eastern (Southern) | 6840 | 1 | 27827 | 10/1945 |
| South Carolina State Port Authority | 101 | 1 | 29989 | 1/1949 |
| South Carolina State Port Authority | 102 | 1 | 31113 | 6/1951 |
| Springfield Suburban Railroad | 500, 511 | 2 | 28499, 28500 | 8/1946 |
| Suncook Valley Railroad | 3 | 1 | 31114 | 7/1951 |
| Swift & Company (Phosphate Rock Mine) | 400 | 1 | 27798 | 6/1945 |
| Tidewater Southern | 135 | 1 | 28337 | 11/1946 |
| Union Freight Railroad | 1-5 | 5 | 28490-28494 | 6/1946 |
| Union Pacific | DS1399 | 1 | 28344 | 3/1947 |
| Upper Merion & Plymouth | 56 | 1 | 30252 | 2/1950 |
| Upper Merion & Plymouth | 57 | 1 | 30855 | 12/1950 |
| Upper Merion & Plymouth | 58 | 1 | 31116 | 7/1951 |
| Upper Merion & Plymouth | 59 | 1 | 31232 | 6/1952 |
| Visalia Electric Railway | 501, 502 | 2 | 27817, 27818 | 8/1945 |
| Washington & Old Dominion | 47 | 1 | 15041 | 12/1941 |
| Washington & Old Dominion | 48, 49 | 2 | 15042, 15043 | 8/1942 |
| Western Maryland | 75, 76 | 2 | 17930, 17935 | 7, 8/1943 |
| Winona Railroad | 440, 441 | 2 | 27820, 27821 | 8/1945 |
Canada
| Owner | Road Number(s) | Quantity | Serial Number | Completion Date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada & Gulf Terminal | 355 | 1 | 29991 | 12/1948 | |
| Canadian National | 3-5 | 3 | 32654-32656 | 10/1956 | |
| Canadian National | 7751, 7752 | 2 | 28349, 28350 | 281-4456 | 5/1947 |
| Greater Winnipeg Water District | 100 | 1 | 28486 | 4/1946 | |
| Greater Winnipeg Water District | 101 | 1 | 30251 | 9/1949 | |
| National Harbor Board (Canada) | D-1 | 1 | 28489 | 4/1946 | |
| Thurso & Nation Valley | 4 | 1 | 28485 | 1/1946 |
Export
| Owner | Road Number(s) | Quantity | Serial Number | Completion Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Alto Cedro (Cuba) | 3 | 1 | 31221 | 11/1951 |
| Central Alto Cedro (Cuba) | 3 (2nd) | 1 | 31222 | 11/1951 |
| Central Patria (Cuba) | 1 (2nd) | 1 | 31223 | 12/1951 |
| F.C. Cubano Hershey (Cuba) | 16-18 | 3 | 31226-31228 | 3/1952 |
| United Fruit Sugar Company (Central Boston) - Cuba | 123, 124 | 2 | 30468, 30469 | 9/1950 |
| United Fruit Sugar Company (Central Preston) - Cuba | 24, 25 | 2 | 30466, 30467 | 9/1950 |
| Central Rio Haina (Dominican Republic) | 1 | 1 | 31230 | 4/1952 |
| Sidérurgique de Nord de La France (France) | 57, 58 | 2 | 31106, 31107 | 3/1951 |
| Sidérurgique de Nord de La France (France) | 59 | 1 | 30629 | 9/1950 |
| Sidérurgique de Nord de La France (France) | 60 | 1 | 30727 | 9/1950 |
| Usimor (France) | 697 | 1 | 32256 | 8/1954 |
| Bharkra Dam Project (66" Gauge) - India | - | 3 | 32067-32069 | 6-7/1953 |
| Secretarias Comunicaciones de Obras Publicas (SCOP) - Mexico | 23022 | 1 | 15756 | 12/1942 |
| Secretarias Comunicaciones de Obras Publicas (SCOP) - Mexico | 23023 | 1 | 27795 | 6/1945 |
| Secretarias Comunicaciones de Obras Publicas (SCOP) - Mexico | 23024 | 1 | 27801 | 7/1945 |
| Secretarias Comunicaciones de Obras Publicas (SCOP) - Mexico | 23025 | 1 | 27816 | 7/1945 |
| Secretarias Comunicaciones de Obras Publicas (SCOP) - Mexico | 23026 | 1 | 27796 | 6/1945 |
| Secretarias Comunicaciones de Obras Publicas (SCOP) - Mexico | 24400 | 1 | 29075 | 11/1947 |
| Arabian-American Oil Company (Saudi Arabia) | A11x52 | 1 | 28341 | 2/1947 |
| Arabian-American Oil Company (Saudi Arabia) | A11x53 | 1 | 29074 | 11/1947 |
| Arabian-American Oil Company (Saudi Arabia) | 103, 104 | 2 | 30255, 30256 | 3/1950 |
| Arabian-American Oil Company (Saudi Arabia) | 105 | 1 | 31117 | 8/1951 |
| Stora Kopparberg Iron Mines (Sweden) | 10 | 1 | 29960 | 6/1948 |
| Trinidad Government Railways (Trinidad) | 54, 55 | 2 | 32070, 32071 | 12/1953 |
| Administración de Ferrocarriles del Estado (Uruguay) | 401-403 | 3 | 31118-31120 | 9/1951 |
| Administración de Ferrocarriles del Estado (Uruguay) | 404-410 | 7 | 32135-32141 | 4/1954 |
Data Sheet and Specifications
| Entered Production | 9/1940 (Chicago, Burlington & Quincy #9103) |
| Years Produced | 9/1940 - 10/1956 |
| Engine | D17000 (2) |
| Engine Builder | Caterpillar |
| Horsepower | 350-400 |
| RPM | 1000 |
| Bore and Stroke | 5 ¾" x 8" |
| Cylinders | 8 |
| Length | 33' 5" |
| Height (Top Of Rail To Top Of Cab) | 13' 3" |
| Width | 10' 1" |
| Weight | 88,000-89,000 Lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 250 Gallons |
| Air Brake Manufacturer | Westinghouse |
| Air Brake Schedule | 14EL |
| Trucks | B-B |
| Truck Type | Welded |
| Truck Wheelbase | 6' 10" |
| Wheel Size | 33" |
| Traction Motors | 733 (4), GE |
| Primary Generator | GT-555 (2 |
| Auxiliary Generator | GMG-140 (2) |
| MU (Multiple-Unit) | Yes |
| Dynamic Brakes | No |
| Gear Ratio | 11.25:1 |
| Tractive Effort (Starting) | 26,400 Lbs at 30% |
| Tractive Effort (Continuous) | 13,000 Lbs at 12 mph |
| Top Speed | 35 mph |
Military Variants
The military was a big buyer of diesel switchers from nearly all of the major manufacturers. The U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army both acquired 44-tonners. The former's were Phase V examples and included fourteen units that were two feet shorter to meet loading limits.
Finally, the latter's were even more interesting. The Army acquired 46 examples with a lower cab to meet height clearances in foreign countries. They also sported an oversized equipment box near the cab and typical foreign components like buffers and screw couplings. Interestingly, they weighed in at 45 tons despite their "44 ton" rating.
Sources
- Hayden, Bob. Diesel Locomotives: Cyclopedia, Volume 2 (Model Railroader). Milwaukee: Kalmbach Publishing Company, 1980.
- General Electric, Apparatus Department. 380-HP, 44-Ton Diesel Electric Railroad Locomotive: For Yard Switching and Road Service. Schenectady: 1947.
- Marre, Louis A. Diesel Locomotives: The First 50 Years, A Guide To Diesels Built Before 1972. Milwaukee: Kalmbach Publishing Company, 1995.
- Rail Heritage Publications. Early Diesel-Electric and Electric Locomotives. Simmons-Boardman Publishing Corporation, 1983.
- Reed, Jay. Critters, Dinkys & Centercabs. Whittier: Rio Hondo, 2000.
- Solomon, Brian. GE Locomotives: 110 Years Of General Electric Motive Power. St. Paul: MBI Publishing, 2003.
Recent Articles
-
Lackawanna Railroad Timetables (October, 1958)
Apr 15, 26 02:55 PM
Presented here is the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western's public timetable listing from the October, 1958 issue of "The Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Illinois Central Timetables (1952)
Apr 15, 26 02:45 PM
This article includes the complete 1952 public timetables of the Illinois Central Railroad." -
Southern Pacific Timetables (1952)
Apr 15, 26 01:56 PM
This article highlights the Southern Pacific's public timetables from the August, 1952 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
NJ Transit Acquires 374 New Multilevel Rail Cars
Apr 15, 26 12:36 PM
NJ Transit has taken a significant step toward modernizing one of the nation’s busiest commuter rail systems with the arrival of the first of 374 new Multilevel III rail cars, part of a sweeping, mult… -
Pennsylvania Father's Day Train Rides (2026)
Apr 15, 26 11:02 AM
This state offers a unique way to celebrate Father's Day with unforgettable train rides that combine history, stunning landscapes, and a dash of nostalgia. -
New York Father's Day Train Rides (2026)
Apr 15, 26 10:46 AM
If you’re looking to make this day memorable, consider taking a scenic train ride with your dad through the beautiful landscapes of New York State. -
Utah "Murder Mystery" Dinner Train Rides
Apr 15, 26 10:39 AM
This article highlights the murder mystery dinner trains currently avaliable in the state of Utah! -
Alabama "Murder Mystery" Dinner Train Rides
Apr 15, 26 10:32 AM
There is currently one location in the state offering a murder mystery dinner experience, the Wales West Light Railway! -
Oregon "Wine Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 15, 26 10:23 AM
For those looking to explore this wine paradise in style and comfort, Oregon's wine tasting trains offer a unique and enjoyable way to experience the region's offerings. -
Virginia "Wine Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 15, 26 10:17 AM
Wine tasting trains in Virginia provide just that—a unique experience that marries the romance of rail travel with the sensory delights of wine exploration. -
Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR) Timetables: 1952
Apr 14, 26 02:36 PM
The information presented here includes the PRR's timetables from the August, 1952 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Penn Central Timetables (1968)
Apr 14, 26 02:12 PM
This article features the Penn Central's 1968 public timetables listed within "The Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) Timetables: 1952
Apr 14, 26 02:03 PM
Presented here is the Baltimore & Ohio's timetables from the August, 1952 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
NJ Transit "America 250" ALP-45DP No. 4526
Apr 14, 26 01:02 PM
In late 2025, NJ Transit unveiled one of its most visually striking locomotives to date: ALP-45DP No. 4526, wearing a bold red, white, and blue livery honoring the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Un… -
Tennessee "Wine Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 14, 26 10:18 AM
One of the most unique and enjoyable ways to savor the flavors of Tennessee’s vineyards is by train aboard the Tennessee Central Railway Museum. -
Pennsylvania 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
Apr 14, 26 10:08 AM
For whiskey aficionados and history buffs alike, a train ride through the Keystone State offering such spirits provides a unique and memorable experience. -
Alabama 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
Apr 14, 26 10:06 AM
With a little planning, you can build a memorable whiskey-and-rails getaway in the Heart of Dixie. -
Rhode Island "Murder Mystery" Dinner Train Rides
Apr 14, 26 09:32 AM
Let's dive into the enigmatic world of murder mystery dinner train rides in Rhode Island, where each journey promises excitement, laughter, and a challenge for your inner detective. -
Nevada Murder Mystery Train Rides
Apr 14, 26 09:20 AM
Seamlessly blending the romance of train travel with the allure of a theatrical whodunit, these excursions promise suspense, delight, and an unforgettable journey through Nevada’s heart. -
Train Rides In Michigan On The Huckleberry Railroad
Apr 13, 26 02:06 PM
Unlike a museum where artifacts remain static, the Huckleberry Railroad is a moving, breathing part of the visitor experience. -
Train Rides In Ohio On The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic
Apr 13, 26 01:52 PM
The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (CVSR) offers one of the most unique rail experiences in the United States: a scenic journey through the heart of a national park. -
Restoration Of LIRR 4-6-0 #39 Continues
Apr 13, 26 01:29 PM
Among the most historically significant surviving locomotives from the Long Island Rail Road is No. 39, a classic 4-6-0 “Ten-Wheeler” that represents the twilight of steam on one of America’s busiest… -
Ohio 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
Apr 13, 26 11:05 AM
The Ohio Rail Experience's Quincy Sunset Tasting Train is a new offering that pairs an easygoing evening schedule with a signature scenic highlight: a high, dramatic crossing of the Quincy Bridge over… -
Texas "Beer Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 13, 26 11:01 AM
Texas State Railroad's “Pints In The Pines” train is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the line: a vintage evening departure, craft beer samplings, and a catered dinner at the Rusk depot un… -
Washington "Murder Mystery" Dinner Train Rides
Apr 13, 26 10:55 AM
This article delves into what makes murder mystery dinner train rides in Washington State such a captivating experience. -
Kentucky "Murder Mystery" Dinner Train Rides
Apr 13, 26 10:02 AM
In the realm of unique travel experiences, Kentucky offers an enchanting twist that entices both locals and tourists alike: murder mystery dinner train rides. -
North Carolina "Wine Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 13, 26 09:55 AM
A noteworthy way to explore North Carolina's beauty is by hopping aboard the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and sipping fine wine! -
Nevada "Wine Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 13, 26 09:46 AM
While it may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of wine, you can sip this delight by train in Nevada at the Nevada Northern Railway. -
Train Rides On The Strasburg Rail Road (2026)
Apr 12, 26 04:11 PM
Few railroads in North America can claim the longevity, authenticity, and continued relevance of the Strasburg Rail Road! -
Train Rides On Florida's Sugar Express! (2026)
Apr 12, 26 12:19 PM
The Sugar Express, based in Clewiston is not merely a tourist railroad—it is a rare example of a true mainline excursion operation running over an active industrial railroad system. -
UP 4014 Route Changed Due To Weather, April 12-14
Apr 12, 26 10:26 AM
Union Pacific has announced that due to inclement weather on Donner Pass, "Big Boy" 4014 will instead operate over the ex-Western Pacific on April 12-14. -
West Virginia "Murder Mystery" Dinner Train Ride
Apr 12, 26 10:25 AM
For those looking to combine the allure of a train ride with an engaging whodunit, the murder mystery dinner trains offer a uniquely thrilling experience. -
Kansas "Murder Mystery" Dinner Train Rides
Apr 12, 26 10:19 AM
Kansas, known for its sprawling wheat fields and rich history, hides a unique gem that promises both intrigue and culinary delight—murder mystery dinner trains. -
Florida "Beer Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 12, 26 10:14 AM
Among the Sugar Express's most popular “kick off the weekend” events is Sunset & Suds—an adults-focused, late-afternoon ride that blends countryside scenery with an onboard bar and a laid-back… -
Illinois "Beer Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 12, 26 10:10 AM
Among IRM’s newer special events, Hops Aboard is designed for adults who want the museum’s moving-train atmosphere paired with a curated craft beer experience. -
New Hampshire "Wine Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 12, 26 10:06 AM
This article details New Hampshire's most enchanting wine tasting trains, where every sip is paired with breathtaking views and a touch of adventure. -
New Jersey "Wine Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 12, 26 10:04 AM
If you're seeking a unique outing or a memorable way to celebrate a special occasion, wine tasting train rides in New Jersey offer an experience unlike any other. -
North Carolina Scenic Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Apr 12, 26 12:18 AM
North Carolina train rides offer many restored steam locomotives to see in action and plenty of scenery. The information here provides complete coverage of train rides in NC, from the Tweetsie Railroa… -
Iron Mountain Railway's Murder Mystery Dinner Trains
Apr 11, 26 02:09 PM
The St. Louis Iron Mountain & Southern Railway—often simply called the “Iron Mountain Railway”—is one of Missouri’s most unique heritage railroads. -
The “Knickerbocker”: NYC's Secondary St. Louis Train
Apr 11, 26 11:35 AM
The Knickerbocker remains one of the more obscure yet historically significant services of the NYC, a secondary train connecting New York and St. Louis. -
Florida "Murder Mystery" Dinner Train Rides
Apr 11, 26 10:51 AM
Florida, known for its vibrant culture, dazzling beaches, and thrilling theme parks, also offers a unique blend of mystery and fine dining aboard its murder mystery dinner trains." -
New Hampshire "Murder Mystery" Dinner Train Rides
Apr 11, 26 10:48 AM
The state's murder mystery trains stand out as a captivating blend of theatrical drama, exquisite dining, and scenic rail travel. -
Wisconsin "Beer Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 11, 26 10:47 AM
The East Troy Railroad Museum's Beer Tasting Train, a 2½-hour evening ride designed to blend scenic travel with guided sampling. -
California "Beer Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 11, 26 10:08 AM
While the Niles Canyon Railway is known for family-friendly weekend excursions and seasonal classics, one of its most popular grown-up offerings is Beer on the Rails. -
Missouri "Wine Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 11, 26 10:06 AM
The fusion of scenic vistas, historical charm, and exquisite wines is beautifully encapsulated in Missouri's wine tasting train experiences. -
Minnesota "Wine Tasting" Train Rides
Apr 11, 26 10:01 AM
This article takes you on a journey through Minnesota's wine tasting trains, offering a unique perspective on this novel adventure. -
Maine Scenic Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Apr 10, 26 11:50 PM
Maine train rides offers the public incredible views of the state's back country with experiences including narrow-gauge operations, trolleys, and more. -
The “Thoroughbred”: Monon's Streamliner to the Bluegrass
Apr 10, 26 04:33 PM
The “Thoroughbred” was the flagship streamlined passenger train of the Monon Railroad, a modest Midwestern carrier whose identity was deeply tied to the state of Indiana. -
N&W 611 To Operate On The Virginia Scenic Railway
Apr 10, 26 01:18 PM
Beginning June 12, 2026, the 611 will power passenger excursions departing from Staunton and Louisa, Virginia, offering riders a rare opportunity to experience mainline steam railroading in the Common… -
BNSF, Metra Reach New 10-Year Passenger Service Agreement
Apr 10, 26 12:31 PM
In a significant development for commuter rail in the Chicago region, BNSF Railway and Metra have reached a new long-term agreement that will extend passenger service on the busy BNSF Line for another…
